29/11/2024
We recently celebrated a remarkable milestone for Joan Carmody, marking her 100th birthday where Joan was surrounded by family and of course her friends of Fairway. Joan received a special honour from the King – a fitting tribute to a woman honouring her incredible life and achievements, whose century of living encompasses wartime service, enduring love, and a passion for music that still brightens the halls of Fairway today. From her early days in Melbourne to her distinguished service in the Australian Women's Army Service, Joan's remarkable journey is a testament to a life lived with purpose and joy.
Joan was born in Melbourne, Victoria, in 1924. A proud veteran of the Second World War, Joan’s life is filled with rich experiences and remarkable achievements.
In March 1943, while working as a stenographer at Dalgetty’s, Joan enlisted in the Australian Women’s Army Service (AWAS). She completed her training at Darley in Victoria, which involved marching, exercise, and lectures. Joan recalls the celebration at the end of training, where she performed the song “Just a Brown Slouch Hat with the Side Turned Up” as part of the entertainment.
Joan was then posted to the Old Melbourne Gaol, where she worked as a typist and stenographer for the Assistant Provost Marshal. Her duties involved supporting soldiers facing disciplinary actions. Despite the challenges of the role, Joan fondly remembers the camaraderie of her colleagues, saying, “We had a lot of laughs together, which made the job enjoyable.” Many of these friendships lasted a lifetime.
In November 1946, Joan was discharged from the AWAS and married William Carmody, a gunner in the Australian Army. Together, they had five children, though sadly, William and one of their children have passed away.
Joan has always been active and community-minded, enjoying tennis, piano, and learning languages in her younger years. Today, she continues to play the piano, listen to music, watch movies, and take part in the activities here at Fairway. She also enjoys going for walks and is known for her open-minded and sociable nature.
We sat down with Joan to chat about her life lessons, passions, and secrets to longevity.
🩷 What wisdom would you like to share?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to be honest and to respect people from all walks of life and all over the world. It’s essential to treat everyone with kindness and respect.
💜 Describe a hobby or passion that brings you joy.
I absolutely love playing the piano. My favourite piece to play is ‘Bill’ from the musical Showboat. It brings me such joy, and it’s always been a way to express myself.
💜 Which book has touched your heart the most?
Oh, definitely Pride and Prejudice! I just adore the story, especially the snobbish mother; it’s fascinating. And the heroes are wonderful too – it’s a story that’s always stuck with me.
💜 What’s the secret to a long life?
I think my easy-going approach has helped a lot. I enjoy being sociable, which keeps life interesting. And, of course, good genes don’t hurt!
As Joan shares her music, wisdom, and warm smile with those around her at Fairway, she continues to exemplify the values that have guided her remarkable century – respect for all, an open mind, and a heart full of joy. Her inspirational story reminds us that life's greatest treasures lie not just in our achievements, but in the connections we make and the kindness we share along the way. Here’s to many more years of joy, music, and cherished memories with Joan!
